Recently, I’ve encountered some issues with my robotic vacuum cleaner. I’ve been using the iRobot Roomba Combo J7 Plus since my initial review, but despite its previous reliability, a series of unexpected issues have prompted me to consider exploring alternatives.
While the iRobot Roomba series has been a familiar choice for me, the recent setbacks with the Combo J7 Plus, especially considering its premium price point, have been quite surprising. Despite my regular cleaning and maintenance routine, the brush functionality has significantly deteriorated. During a cleaning session, the Combo J7 Plus even managed to damage its camera lens, impacting its diagnostic capabilities, despite the impressive navigation technology I had observed during testing.
With the news of its impending acquisition by Amazon, the future of Roomba’s longstanding dominance in the robot vacuum market seems uncertain, especially with formidable competitors like Dyson and Samsung entering the arena with promising offerings (though the Dyson 360 Vis Nav did not meet expectations). At Samsung’s recent Bespoke AI event, I had the opportunity to witness the unveiling of the new Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI robot vacuum, and I am intrigued by the advancements it brings to the table.
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Delving into the Past
Samsung drew significant attention when it introduced its second-generation Jet Bot AI+ vacuum at Les 2021, with many eager to see how its new technology would fare in the market.
However, based on our evaluation of the Samsung Jet Bot AI+, the original Jet Bot model fell short compared to its competitors, facing notable issues. Its relatively bulky design, standing at 3.9 inches tall, posed challenges for cleaning under furniture, unlike the more compact models we had tested, typically around 3.2 inches tall. Additionally, the navigation capabilities and edge cleaning performance were underwhelming, making the Jet Bot AI+ seem overpriced despite Samsung’s innovative features.
Despite Samsung’s previous struggles to establish a strong presence in the robotic cleaning sector (remember Crubo and PowerBot), the Jet Bot AI+ impressed with its powerful suction and debris-cleaning capabilities that surpassed many other robot vacuums.
Embracing Innovation
In contrast, Samsung’s latest offering, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI, promises a vastly improved cleaning experience, now equipped with mopping capabilities.
Unveiled at CES 2024, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI not only retains features like pet monitoring but also undergoes significant upgrades in both hardware and software. Notably, it boasts a sleeker profile, standing at approximately 3.4 inches tall, comparable to the iRobot Roomba Combo J7+, if not slightly taller. Despite my preference for slimmer vacuums, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI offers superior performance, even with its increased clearance height.
The addition of powerful spinning mop pads, rotating at 170 RPM, ensures thorough stain removal. Recognizing different floor types, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI adjusts its cleaning patterns accordingly and automatically raises mop pads to prevent carpet dampening. Moreover, the Clean Station feature steam-washes and sanitizes mop pads, eliminating 99.9% of bacteria.
Equipped with an auto-emptying home base with three-liter tanks for dirty and clean water, along with a dustbin compartment, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI offers advanced functionality. Its software enhancements include a robust AI neural network, reinforced by a vast image database for precise obstacle detection.
Looking Ahead
While I have yet to evaluate the performance of Samsung’s Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI extensively, the potential for a more efficient cleaning experience is evident. Samsung’s expertise in home appliances and software development positions the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI as a strong competitor in the market.
The Bespoke Jet Bot Combo AI is currently open for preorders on Samsung’s US website, priced at \(1,699 with a \)300 discount at the time of writing. Pricing and release details for the UK and Australia are pending. However, the US pricing provides a basis for comparison, placing it \(300 above iRobot’s latest Roomba J9+ and \)200 higher than Dyson’s vacuum-only Vis Nav model.
